Enjoy the Hauraki Gulf with Mission Bay Watersports

There are plenty of incredible things to do in Auckland over summer and enjoying the beaches and waters are definitely among them. If you want to enjoy a really memorable aquatic experience make either a kayak, or a stand up paddle board trip, top of your list. It doesn't matter if you are a complete novice, or have already been bitten by the bug, as Mission Bay Watersports offer both classes and hire which makes them one of the most popular Auckland attractions.

The office trailer of Mission Bay Watersports is located right on the beach at the city end of Mission bay and they are open for lessons and rentals every day from 9am to 6.30pm weather permitting. Booking is recommended but you can just stop by on a whim as well.

Mission Bay Watersports offer a range of fantastic group stand up paddle boarding lessons (Photo credit: Mission Bay Watersports).

The Hauraki Gulf Marine Park is one of the major attractions in Auckland and is the perfect place to explore in the low impact and peaceful way that sea kayaks and stand up paddle boards offer. While kayaking in Auckland you can enjoy some exceptional sightseeing of natural wonders including volcanic islands and sandstone cliffs. Within the sparkling water of the five protected marine reserves, you will be able to come into close contact with the varied and abundant wildlife that inhabit the area. The sandy bays and sheltered coves offer an idyllic scenario to enjoy some incredible Auckland paddle boarding and to really connect with nature.

Mission Bay Watersports is the only SUP–stand up paddle board- school in central Auckland which has only International Surf Association qualified instructors and they offer a range of top-quality boards. Everyone receives a free 15-minute orientation lesson with a one-hour rental to make sure that you have some basic skills, and the board comes equipped with a paddle, leash, and a personal flotation device.

To really get the best out of your time paddle boarding in Auckland a full lesson, either in a group or private is recommended for those with no prior experience. Here you will learn basic techniques like board control, turning, and paddling and become familiar with the equipment and safety procedures all within the safety of the flat waters around Mission Bay.

 

Stand up paddle boarding offers a great way to get in shape while exploring Auckland’s scenic coast (Photo credit: Mission Bay Watersports)

For people who already have some skills why not try a SUP fitness and yoga session, an excellent way to tone the whole body and to hone your balance skills. Once you have mastered the basics you can progress on to the more advanced courses where you will be able to get out into the surf of the open ocean. Consider taking advantage of the discounts offered for multiple hires, as once you’ve tried it you are sure to want more!

Mission Bay Watersports also offers sit on top kayaks which are easy to learn how to control and are extremely safe, for a really enjoyable Auckland kayaking experience. No instruction is necessary and after a safety briefing, you can just hop on a single or double kayak for a half hour full of fun. If you want to improve your skills and make the most of your Auckland kayaking adventure opt for the hour hire which includes a 15-minute basic skills lesson.

Remember to wear lightweight clothing or swimwear that allows you free movement to best enjoy your trip and in the colder months take advantage of the wetsuit which comes included in the price. Children over eight years old can control their own paddleboard and younger ones can enjoy riding along on an adult's board for a great family experience. Both SUPs and kayaks can also be hired to take away so you can enjoy a fabulous adventure wherever you want to go.

While a kayak or paddle board might just be the perfect way to explore Auckland by sea, for getting around terra firma, hire a rental car from one of Omega’s Auckland depots.